League Scores Historic Redistricting Victory, Districts To Be Redrawn By 2016

The Florida Senate today confessed that the March, 2012 Senate redistricting maps were drawn in violation of the Constitution and in favor of certain parties and incumbents,” Pamela Goodman, the President of the League of Women Voters of Florida, said today shortly after the Senate’s agreement was presented in court. (Image for SpaceCoastDaily)

TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – The Florida Senate today confessed that the March, 2012 Senate redistricting maps were drawn in violation of the Constitution and in favor of certain parties and incumbents,” Pamela Goodman, the President of the League of Women Voters of Florida, said today shortly after the Senate’s agreement was presented in court.

Pamela Goodman

“This is a huge victory for all Floridians and the belief that we all have a right to honest, open government,” Goodman said.

The League is one of the plaintiffs, with Common Cause, in the legal fight to get the gerrymandered districts redrawn. Trial was set to begin Sept. 25 before the Senate preempted it with today’s agreement.

“This was a battle that had to be fought,” Goodman said.

“What happened in 2012 when the districts were drawn undercover with no intention of considering the best needs of a district and its voters was an egregious example of greed, influence and naked political ambition.”

Coming on the heels of the Florida Supreme Court’s landmark July 9 decision that ruled eight Congressional districts unlawful, Goodman said: “We salute the Senate’s decision to admit wrongdoing and to have the districts honestly and openly redrawn in time for the 2016 elections.”

“The League will be watching as the Senate redraws the map, with the hope that they do it according to the Florida Constitution.”

“This is a new chapter in Florida political misbehavior and in Florida constitutional law,” Goodman said. “But, most importantly, the will of the voters cannot be ignored by those chosen to represent us in elected office.”

About The League of Women Voters of Florida

The League of Women Voters of Florida, a nonpartisan political organization, encourages informed and active participation in government, works to increase understanding of major public policy issues, and influences public policy through education and advocacy.